The security situation involving Nigerians living in South Africa has taken a worrying turn, with members of the Nigerian community revealing that many have begun arming themselves for self defence following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks in parts of the country.
The development comes after weeks of violent incidents that have reportedly claimed lives, destroyed businesses and forced hundreds of Nigerians to flee their homes. Community leaders say many residents now fear for their safety and believe they can no longer rely solely on security agencies for protection.
Speaking on the growing crisis, the President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, Frank Onyekwelu, said many Nigerians had resorted to acquiring legal means of protecting themselves because of repeated attacks by criminal groups targeting foreigners. He stressed that the decision was driven by the need for survival rather than retaliation, noting that members of the community had suffered years of violence and intimidation...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Onyekwelu explained that several Nigerians have undergone the necessary legal processes to obtain licensed firearms in accordance with South African laws, insisting that the weapons are intended strictly for self defence. He warned that while the Nigerian community remains committed to peace, people have the right to defend themselves if their lives are under imminent threat.
He also expressed concern over what he described as inadequate protection from authorities, urging both the South African and Nigerian governments to take more decisive steps to safeguard lives and property. According to him, the continued attacks have left many Nigerians traumatised, while others have lost businesses and livelihoods built over several years.
The latest development follows the recent evacuation of hundreds of Nigerians from South Africa after renewed xenophobic violence intensified across several communities. Many of those who returned home recounted experiences of attacks, harassment and the destruction of their properties.
The situation has continued to generate concern among Nigerians both at home and abroad, with many calling for stronger diplomatic engagement between the two countries to prevent further violence. There have also been renewed appeals for improved security, justice for victims and lasting solutions to the recurring xenophobic attacks that have strained relations between citizens of Nigeria and South Africa over the years.
